Call cost comparison to leading Canadian Networks

Network	CALLS IN UK	INCOMING CALLS IN UK	CALLS TO CANADA	SMS SEND	SMS RECEIVE
FIDO	C$2.50	C$2.50	C$2.50	C$0.60	FREE
ROGERS	C$2.50	C$2.50	C$2.50	C$0.60	C$0.15
GO-SIM	C$0.61	FREE	C$0.61	C$0.16	FREE

These rates are correct as at 1/7/09 and are subject to change.

FAQS

What is GSM?

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a cellular standard of service used across the planet. Most of the world's cellular service is GSM making it relatively easy to travel from country to country with your own cell phone and number. The service used predominantly in Canada is called CDMA (used by Bell and Telus), which is not compatible with GSM.Thanks to Rogers and Fido, GSM is quickly catching up, although their service is expensive to make or receive calls while travelling overseas.

What is a SIM card?

The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card also known as a "smart chip" is basically the "brain" of the phone, providing cellular service as well as many other functions including call history, voice mail and text. SIM cards are the size of a credit card but they have a pop-out chip about the size of a postage stamp which fits into all modern GSM phones. The SIM is embedded with circuitry and when inserted into a GSM phone provides wireless phone service on a particular GSM network.

What is a locked phone?

A locked phone is one that has been altered in order to use only one particular cellular provider. An unlocked phone is one where any restriction has been removed and can therefore you can fit any SIM card. Many handsets are not locked at all. Some handsets however are "locked" by the supplying network to operate with their specific network SIM card. The easiest way to find out if your handset is locked is to borrow a different network SIM card from a friend and fit it to your handset. If you see any of the following messages your handset is probably locked:

SIM Card Not Accepted
Enter Restriction Code
Enter Special Code
Enter Subsidy Code
Enter Subsidy Password

If you need your handset unlocking, you have 3 options:
1. Visit our unlocking partner site to unlock your handset on-line (there is a charge for this service).
2. Visit your local retailer or service centre to unlock your handset. Prices will vary so we advise you to call in advance and ensure they can unlock your particular model.
3. Contact your usual network provider. They can usually provide this service but it tends to be more expensive than the options above and may involve sending your phone away.
Remember, once your handset is unlocked you are free to use a GSM SIM card as many times as you like - so you can continue to make massive savings on your calls in the future!
It is not illegal!

What are PIN and PUK numbers?

Some prepaid SIM cards have a security mechanism in place that requires the user to enter in a PIN (Personal Identification Number) code every time the phone is turned on. When a PIN code has been assigned it is important not to forget this code. If you enter the PIN code incorrectly into the phone 3 times in a row then your phone will display a 'Blocked' message. When this occurs you will then be required to unblock your phone using the PUK (Personal Unblocking Key). If you enter the PUK incorrectly 10 times in a row you will block your SIM card indefinitely and you will have to purchase a new one.
All phones have a different set of procedures to enable PIN locks so you may have to consult your phone manual for full details.

What is a Global SIM card?

Global SIM cards allow a user to make and receive calls in multiple countries without paying expensive roaming charges - usually saving up to 85% compared with using your usual service while travelling.
The Global SIM card works in 175 countries using over 400 local Network Operators making it a robust solution for multi-country travel.
The call charges are straightforward and published on our website so that you always know how much a call will cost you.

The service is prepaid - so you add call credit in advance with no hidden charges - no monthly or annual fees and no call set-up or access charges.
You are automatically notified when your credit is low so that you can top-up securely again with GO-SIM. And best of all, unused call credit never expires - so you can use the service year after year!

Is it like a calling card?

Not at all. Calling cards are used to make outgoing calls via public phones or landlines so you can be billed. Of course, nobody can call YOU if you have a calling card.

How do I install a SIM card?

Turn the phone over and remove the battery cover and battery. Remove the existing SIM Card and replace it with your new International SIM card, making sure to use the locking mechanism of your phone to hold it in place.
Store your usual SIM card safely so that it can be re-fitted at a later date.

What number comes with a Global SIM?

The Global SIM is an international mobile service based out of Estonia and therefore the SIM mobile number has a +372 prefix. For Canadian customers, we also provide an optional Canadian toll-free number. Just email us to request your Canadian toll-free number when you receive your Global SIM card.
The cost to call the Global SIM will depend on how much your network provider or fixed line carrier charges to call an Estonian mobile. For your ease, we have made some Gateway or Toll Free numbers available which make the cost of calling the Global SIM much cheaper (these calls cost an additional US$0.35 per minute, deducted from the Global SIM airtime balance).

How good is the signal/coverage?

The Global SIM service operates in 175 countries around the world on over 400 networks. This means that in many countries you can actually make and receive calls on more than one network. The Global SIM will normally automatically select the strongest signal but it may be possible to manually select another network if required. The available network list will be displayed in your handset if you select 'manually search networks' (or something similar) via your handset menu. Whichever of the available networks you choose; the call rates will always be the same.

What are the call charges?

Simply click on the Rate Calculator so see the cost of calls in all countries covered by the service. When you get your Global SIM card there will also be a table of call rates included with the user guide - however, although rates don't change often, always check the website for the most up to date information.

How can I transfer my phone contacts?

We recommend that you always keep a copy of your phone contacts. There are many low cost applications available which can be installed on a PC which allow this to be done. When you save a contact on your usual phone, it can be stored to either the handset memory or to the SIM memory so we suggest that you make sure all important numbers in both memories are backed up. For numbers saved in your normal SIM card you can save these onto your handset. Once done, put your Global SIM into your handset and then copy your numbers from the handset memory to the Global SIM.

How many numbers does the SIM card hold?

The Global SIM card can hold up to 250 phone numbers and 20 SMS messages. It is a Java Card 2.1.1 and has a 64K EEPROM.

How do I activate my SIM card and how long will it last?

The Global SIM card is pre-activated - so no need to do anything, imply fit into your compatible GSM handset and start using the service
Unlike many other similar providers, unused call credit on your Global SIM card never expires so you can use the service year after year

Can I call or text anyone?

YES. You can call and text anywhere in the world - there are no hidden charges; our rates are the same for calls to fixed or mobile numbers.
Text messages can be sent in two ways - either via the keypad as you would normally or via the SIM menu. If you use the SIM menu the cost of each text message is greatly reduced. Click on the Rate Calculator to see all call charge

What happens to my existing service when I use a different SIM card in my handset?

Your existing service is completely unaffected by using the GLOBAL SIM in your handset. All you need to do is take your regular SIM out of your handset and place the GLOBAL SIM in for the duration of your trip. Then when you get home swap them around again. Remember to keep both in a safe place. You may want to change your voicemail message to say you are travelling and contactable on your new GLOBAL SIM number.

Does it support data use?

Yes, the Global SIM card is GPRS compatible and in some countries 3G is also supported. Coverage currently extends to over 80 countries with multiple networks being available to connect to in some providing a great solution to data on the move. Users will need to configure their handsets to take advantage of the service by installing settings provided either manually or sent over the air (OTA). You can send the data settings OTA for your specific handset my logging into your SIM card account online. If you handset isn't covered by the OTA service, you may still be able to configure it manually using the following information:

APN: send.ee
User name: (your full Global SIM mobile number)
Password: (leave blank)

Data rates are per 100KB and are shown by clicking on the rate calculator. You require a minimum airtime balance of $9.00 to use data services on the Global SIM card.

How much data do I get?

As with voice calls, the cost to use data services vary from country to country so you need to check using the rate calculator on the website. The data rate can also sometimes vary slightly depending which network operator you connect to - so make sure you select the one shown in the rate calculator (where more than one is available we will show the preferred one in the call data and the others in additional information).

The data charge is shown per 100kb.
1 bit = 1024 Kbs
1024 Kbs = 1 Mb
1024 Mbs = 1 Gb

100 KB is a few E-Mails, for instance, a quick E-Mail check is about 3-5 KB, sending or receiving a few short mails may be around 20-30 Kb.

How can I access my email?

There are two ways. Firstly, you can connect to the Internet using GPRS or 3G (subject to availability in the country) and access your webmail if your handset or mobile device is capable of doing this. See the data FAQ for more information about this. Secondly, you can use the Voice2Email, (or V2E for short) service. This is a unique voice activated dial in service that'll allow you to manage your emails from any mobile handset. With V2E you can listen to, compose, reply, forward and delete emails through the power of speech alone. What's more - you can also access your calendar and contacts too and also import contacts from many popular email accounts. Perfect for business travellers and holidaymakers alike, it really will provide you with a convenient way to stay on top of your emails 365 days of the year - using the power of your own voice and without the need for a special phone or connection to the Internet. Set up V2E FREE today when you manage your International SIM card account online. Check in our Rates Calculator to see the cost of accessing your emails in over 175 countries.

How do I make a call?

The Global SIM card uses a clever process called 'call back'. It is a little different to how you would usually make a call on your mobile phone, but is really easy to use. Effectively, after dialling the number you want to call, our system calls you back within seconds and your handset will ring - answer it as usual and that is it, you are connected.

Every time you make a call:

1. Dial the number using the full international code (even if you are in that country). For example, to dial a UK number (such as 0845 6583410) from anywhere in the world you will need to dial 00 44 845 6583410 or +44 845 6583410.
2. Your handset will display a Calling... message
3. Within a few seconds your handset will ring
4. Answer the call as usual and you are connected

I get the message 'call barred' or 'restricted number' - what does this mean?

If you see the message 'Call barred', 'Restricted number' or 'Check operator services' it is because some handsets have software that means the way you can make a call requires a different dialling procedure. This is called Menu Calling. To make calls using this method, first locate the new Menu option for the International SIM card in your phone:

Nokia: the last item on the Main menu
Sony Ericsson: in the Connectivity menu
Motorola: in the Office Tools menu
Samsung: in the Applications menu
Siemens: in the Main or Extras menu

If your phone uses icons, look for the International SIM icon.

How do people call me?

To call the Global SIM from Canada you must always dial the full international mobile number (including prefix) - for example, dial 011 372 followed by the 8 digit mobile number (eg 011 372 123 45678). For your ease, we have made available toll-free gateway numbers which make the cost of calling the Global Sim much cheaper. Simply call the gateway number and follow the voice prompts:

1 888 935 4312
1 877 202 3800
1 800 657 6830

How do I decide which product to buy?

The VisitBritain Global SIM card works throughout the UK, as well as in 175 other countries. So when you purchase your Global SIM card, you can use it for all your overseas trips for years to come. And if you need a handset as well as a Global SIM, then choose the handset/SIM bundled product.

When you have made your selection, click on the 'Add to basket' button. Add any other items you might need, e.g. any additional airtime credit when in the shopping basket. You will also be offered our optional GO-Protect, to cover you in the event of theft or damage. You can even choose to purchase optional carbon offset credits to cover the carbon footprint of your trip.

When you have finished shopping, select your preferred delivery option and click on the 'Checkout' button. You'll then just need to complete the quick registration form online, followed by your secure payment details. A secure online account is then created for you so that when you return (e.g. to add more call credit) it is quick and easy to make additional orders.

Once completed, you will receive a notification via email and your order will be shipped to your door before you travel.
You can also call us at any time on the number displayed in the Support section of the website.
With the Global SIM card, you are automatically notified when your credit is low so that you can top-up securely again by going to MyGO-SIM. And best of all, unused call credit never expires - so you can use the service year after year!

How long does delivery take?

It depends where you are but normally this takes 5 – 10 days.
For security reasons we can't deliver to airports but we can often deliver to your destination address or even hotel.

What happens if I have a problem?

No problem! Unlike many of our competitors, we offer a range of contact methods which ensure you can always get in touch so we can help. If you can't see the answer to your query in our FAQ's, you can:

Email us by clicking on the link in 'Contact Us' in the Support section.
Call us on one of the numbers shown in the Support Section under Contact Us.

What happens if I lose my Global SIM?

Losing your mobile phone is bad enough at any time but if you are far from home it can become much more than an inconvenience.
We recommend that you take out our SIM card protection plan (GO-Protect) when you purchase a Global SIM card. By simply selecting this at the checkout stage, your new Global SIM card will be protected and then if the worst happens, we will sort out a replacement card with the same mobile number, transfer any remaining call credit and get it to you - fast.

What do I do when I’m back home?   

When you are back home you just need to take your GLOBAL SIM out and place your regular SIM back in your handset. When not traveling, remember to keep your GLOBAL SIM safe with your passport, so that it will be there to take with you on your next overseas trip. If you changed your voicemail message you will need to record a new one again.

Will my service provider immediately re-register my account once I swap in my old card?  

As soon as you place your regular SIM in your handset and turn it on, it will automatically register with your local carrier. You don't need to contact your carrier or do anything else.

Does anything happen to my billing charges while my SIM card has been swapped out?

Your regular carrier will have continued to charge you your monthly fees if you have a contract. Other than that, it’s just the same as if you've had your phone turned off for a few days and not used it.

PHONE UNLOCKING

Click here to unlock your mobile phone now

Usually, providing that you have a tri-band (or quad-band) phone, and your phone is unlocked, you can use any one of our SIM cards in your handset.

Many handsets are not locked. Some handsets however are "locked" by the supplying network to operate with their specific network SIM card.

Do you see any of the following messages when you put a different Network SIM card into your handset?

* SIM Card Not Accepted
* Enter Restriction Code
* Enter Special Code
* Enter Subsidy Code
* Enter Subsidy Password

If you do, our specialist unlocking partner can help you remove this lock in a few easy steps.

If you need your handset unlocking, you have 3 options:

1. Visit our unlocking partner site to unlock your handset on-line (There is a charge for this service). Click Here To Unlock Your: Blackberry, Samsung, Siemens, G1, Nokia, Motorola, LG.......

2. Visit you local retailer or service centre to unlock your handset. Prices will vary so we advise you to call in advance and ensure they can unlock your particular model.

3. Contact your usual network provider. They can usually provide this service but it tends to be more expensive than the options above and may involve sending your phone away.

Remember, once your handset is unlocked you are free to use a GSM SIM card as many times as you like - so you can continue to make massive savings on your calls in the future! It is not illegal!

Unlock your handset now - click here

CONTACT US

Confused? Need some help?

• If you're just starting out, try our beginners guide to Global SIM cards here.
• Don't forget to look at our FAQ page. This has been put together based on questions asked before by customers.
• If you are looking for a user guide, download one here.
• Need your phone unlocking - click here
• If you'd like some free advice or support please contact our friendly team here.

Email

If you can't find the answer to your query on the FAQ's page then please email us. This is the most effective way of contacting us as we can ensure that your enquiry is passed to the most appropriate person in our Support team.

 Email GO-SIM

Contact GO-SIM in the UK										Contact GO-SIM in the US
0845 6583410										US - 866-604-6746
Outside UK +44 845 6583410
GO-SIM Limited Concorde House 10 Great North Way York Business Park York YO26 6RB North Yorkshire United Kingdom										GO-SIM PO Box 306 Franklin Square New York, NY 11010-0306 USA